Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad

Name: Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or penne); 1 cup grilled chicken, diced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/3 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Flavor Classics

When I first combined juicy chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, I knew I had struck gold. This pasta salad has become a staple in my kitchen for warm days and gatherings alike. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta brings a delightful tang, while the pasta makes it satisfying. I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for a last-minute potluck or a flavorful lunch. Each bite bursts with flavor and freshness that never fails to impress my family and friends.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:41:36.728Z

Creating my Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad was an exploration of flavors that came together beautifully. I experimented with various ingredients, finally landing on a combination that showcases the best of Mediterranean cuisine. The secret is letting the ingredients marinate a bit before serving; it makes the flavors vibrant and deeply satisfying.

What surprised me the most was how well the chicken absorbed the flavors of the herbs and dressing. Using grilled chicken adds an extra layer of flavor, making every bite a delightful experience. I recommend cooking a bit more chicken than needed for toppings on other dishes!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh and zesty ingredients that brighten any meal
A one-bowl dish that's ideal for meal prep
Versatile: Enjoy it cold or warm, perfect for any season

Choosing the Right Pasta

The choice of pasta can significantly impact the texture and overall enjoyment of your Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad. Fusilli and penne are my go-to options because their shapes allow them to catch and hold onto the dressing and ingredients beautifully. Alternatively, if you're seeking a gluten-free option, quinoa pasta works remarkably well, maintaining the dish's integrity without compromising on flavor.

Be sure to cook your pasta al dente, which typically means boiling it for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions recommend. This ensures the pasta remains firm and prevents it from becoming mushy when tossed with the dressing and salad ingredients.

Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference

Using fresh produce is crucial in this pasta salad, as it directly affects the flavor profile. Fresh cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while a crisp cucumber contributes a refreshing crunch. I recommend selecting firm, brightly colored vegetables, as they indicate ripeness and enhance the salad's appeal both visually and taste-wise.

For the olives, Kalamata is favored due to their rich, briny flavor that complements the creaminess of the feta. If you can’t find Kalamata, consider using green olives, which will provide a different but equally delicious taste. Remember to taste as you go to adjust flavors according to personal preference.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad is not just a quick meal—it's also perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the salad up to a day in advance; just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This helps the pasta maintain its texture and prevents the salad from becoming soggy. When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will last up to four days.

If you do find the salad becoming a bit dry after a day, simply add a splash of olive oil and give it a good toss to reinvigorate those flavors. For a twist, try adding chickpeas or artichoke hearts for extra protein and texture—these additions also store well and bring new flavors to the dish.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or penne)
1 cup grilled chicken, diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Season and Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. For best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables or proteins. Grilled shrimp or chickpeas would be great additions! This salad also tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor of your salad even further, consider toasting your feta cheese before adding it to the mix. Simply heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add crumbled feta, and cook for 2-3 minutes until it is slightly golden. This brings out a delightful nuttiness that beautifully contrasts with the tangy dressing.

You can also incorporate fresh herbs beyond parsley. Basil and mint offer a fragrant twist that complements the Mediterranean theme. Chop a handful and fold them in right before serving to keep their fresh flavor intact.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this salad on a bed of mixed greens can add a vibrant and healthy touch, providing extra crunch and nutrients. I like to drizzle a little extra olive oil and sprinkle fresh lemon juice over the greens for added flavor before adding the pasta salad on top.

For a beautiful presentation at gatherings, consider serving the salad in a large, shallow dish and garnishing it with additional olives and crumbled feta. This transforms a simple dish into a stunning center-point that is bound to impress your guests, making it as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad keeps well in the refrigerator, so you can prepare it a day in advance.

→ What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Fusilli and penne are great choices, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or even chickpeas for protein.

→ Can I use other cheeses?

Definitely! Goat cheese or mozzarella can also work well in this salad.